Korean Job Discussion Forums

[jeremydc808]

Decided to start the application thread for GEPIK 2013 as well. I will most likely go through Korvia since I am applying for EPIK through Footprints. I know there are other recruiters for GEPIK but Korvia seems to be a good recruiter.



I am sure these types of threads will help future applicants.

[YTMND]

Are you already in Korea? If so, why are you deciding to go through the process rather than interviewing with a specific school you can visit and decide on location rather than being appointed?

[jeremydc808]

Nope not in Korea so I think a recruiter would be my best bet.

[YTMND]

Then how do you know you want to go the public school route? What made you rule out hagwons? You could start a lot sooner and have the location of your choice.

I am just asking because I used hagwons as a stepping stone to get public school jobs in Korea. I have done the same here in China by getting a "language school" (same as hagwon) job and then simply ending it early when I found the public school I wanted. It allows you to pivot around an area to get the job you want.

If you are going into this blindly, accepting EPIK or GEPIK, it could be anywhere and you have a greater chance of getting a location you may not like. What will you do then? Ask for another location? Look to hagwons?

[jeremydc808]

True. I won't be receiving my official diploma until Oct. so starting early will be difficult.

I have been reading any horror stories about hagwons. I understand by doing research and asking to talk directly to foreign teachers will help avoid bad schools.

My main issue is job security and even though no job is 100% secure, I would feel more comfortable if accepted to a public school.


I appreciate your advice .

[jeremydc808]

Dang still waiting for a response.

[YTMND]

[jeremydc808]

To Korvia. That may be the reason. Thanks for the encouragement

[Keeper]

[rayne]

I had a terrible experience with Korvia. They pulled the bait-and-switch technique on it. I contacted over 25 recruiters and they were actually the only ones who did this to me. Most recruiters eventually stopped responding to me, but that's better than having them try to trick me into a terrible job.

I have heard good things and bad things (my experience was bad, unfortunately) so hopefully you'll be luckier than me.

Just wanted you to know so you can prepare a backup plan or something.

[jeremydc808]

No response yet with Korvia, I understand that it is early but come on. Any other suggestions beside Footprints?

[Jhan423]

Could someone tell me if you have to be completely done with the 100 hr tefl/tesl course at the time of applying, or can you still be in the process of completing the course when you apply for GEPIK?
Also... I'm not sure if anyone will be able to answer this, but do you think have a BA in english will increase my chances of being accepted? Or is the only degree they're giving special interest to a BA in education?

[jeremydc808]

I would think that having the tesol started during the application process is fine. I know they want you to have it before you land. I am sure your BA in English will increase your chances. You are applying for an ENGLISH teaching position right? lol. Just apply after me then everything will be fine

[isitts]

[jeremydc808]

Well because I wanted to experience different recruiters.


Back to topic: Finally got an email with a Skype interview next week.